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Local Park Plan Offers Hope for Town’s Children

Work on a park spanning international borders is slated to commence in September, following a 10-year delay in its development.

For Chloe McDevitt and Joanne Murray, a simple outing with their children is not as straightforward as it sounds, due to the lack of accessible green spaces in their hometown.

A woman stands close to the camera on a very rainy day. She has brown hair tied back in a ponytail. She is wearing a black puffer coat. The pavement is slick and reflective in the rain behind the woman, backed also by a line of traffic. Behind her is a busy street in strabane, with buildings like a subway and o2 shop in vision.
Chloe said the space would be a good way "to get young people off the streets"

Their town, Strabane, with a population of around 14,000, is one of the largest in County Tyrone, yet it lacks sufficient large parks, forcing parents to consider alternative destinations like Omagh or Letterkenny in County Donegal.

However, a long-awaited development may soon change this, as construction on a multi-million pound park connecting Strabane and Lifford is expected to commence later this year, following the recent allocation of €16.7m (£14.5m) in EU funding.

The Riverine Project, initially proposed in 2012, aims to create a family-friendly area with a pavilion, greenways, and parks, stretching across the River Foyle into the Republic of Ireland.

Chloe McDevitt welcomes the news, citing the presence of a strong online community of mothers in Strabane who actively advocate for more child-friendly activities in the town.

She notes that a proposed skate park in Strabane faced opposition from local residents, with a petition launched in January, highlighting the challenges of introducing new facilities.

Joanne Murray, another local parent, often takes her seven-month-old daughter on trips outside Strabane, visiting places like the Gortin Glens near Omagh or Derry, due to the limited options available in their hometown.

Two semi-abstract steel and bronze statues face eachother at about 18 foot tall, with arms outstretched on a green space. Behind them is a road of traffic, backed by large trees. It is cloudy, interrupted only by a brief glimpse of blue sky in the middle of them.
There is a lack of large green spaces in Strabane

She expresses concern about the lack of resources for children's activities in the area, which can be booked up or require payment, and notes that walking routes in town are often less than ideal.

The bypass, a common spot for locals, is not suitable for a stroll with a baby due to the presence of car fumes, noise, and heavy traffic.

Chloe McDevitt highlights the negative impact of the lack of outdoor facilities on young people, citing instances of anti-social behaviour, such as rubbish being thrown into her garden.

She believes that the Riverine Project could help address these issues by providing a space for young people to engage in positive activities.

Barney Harte, a Sinn Féin councillor and former chair of the Riverine Community Forum, acknowledges the project's tumultuous history, including funding issues and delays, but views the recent launch as a positive development.

The project's history is marked by setbacks, including the withdrawal of funds in 2013 and a failed application for EU funding in 2018, as well as a lapsed planning application in 2023.

Fergus Martin, a resident of Lifford, remains sceptical about the project's prospects, citing a history of unfulfilled promises and a lack of tangible progress.

However, Barney Harte is more optimistic, stating that tenders for the project are set to be issued in April, with work expected to begin in September.

He believes that once construction commences, the community will become more confident in the project's viability.

An illustration of faint colours depicts a skatepark coloured in orange, yellow and grey. In it are young people wearing helmets and riding skateboards. The park is surrounded by lampposts and greenery, in the distance on the left, the tower of a church looms, as well as the top of the Ballycolman footbridge on the right.
A petition was launched in January against plans for a skate park in the town

Donegal County Council has confirmed that detailed design works are progressing well, and the £14.5m in funding allocated by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) through Peaceplus will support the project's development.

At the official launch in January, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons praised the collaborative efforts of both councils, highlighting the joint commitment to bringing the project to fruition.

As the project moves forward, locals like Chloe McDevitt and Joanne Murray await the creation of much-needed green spaces and family-friendly facilities.

The Riverine Project's success could have a significant impact on the community, providing a space for outdoor activities, cultural events, and social interaction.

By addressing the lack of resources and facilities, the project aims to improve the quality of life for residents, particularly young people and families.

The development of the Riverine Project is a significant step towards creating a more vibrant and engaging community in Strabane and Lifford.

With the allocation of €16.7m (£14.5m) in EU funding, the project is poised to become a reality, bringing numerous benefits to the local community.

As the project progresses, it is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, as well as providing a valuable resource for residents.

A bald man with a short white beard smiles close to the camera. He is wearing a black t-shirt with a small white logo on his left chest. Behind him is a black gate, with cars parked outside a red brick building with white corners.
Councillor Barney Harte says the project launch should be viewed as "a positive step forward"

The Riverine Project's journey has been marked by challenges and setbacks, but the recent launch and allocation of funding have renewed hopes for its successful completion.

The project's history serves as a reminder of the complexities and obstacles that can arise during the development process.

Despite these challenges, the Riverine Project remains a vital initiative for the community, and its successful completion could have a lasting impact on the region.

Fergus Martin's scepticism is understandable, given the project's history, but the recent developments and allocation of funding may help to alleviate concerns.

A man stands close infront of a green hedge. He has short brown hair, with the beginnings of a 5 o'clock shadow. He is wearing black glasses with large lenses, and a white hoodie with a round graphic on the left of his chest.
Fergus Martin is unsure given the decade long wait

The project's success will depend on the collaboration and commitment of all parties involved, including the local councils and community groups.

As the project moves forward, it is essential to address the concerns and expectations of the local community, ensuring that the final product meets their needs and exceeds their expectations.

The Riverine Project has the potential to become a flagship development for the region, showcasing the benefits of collaborative planning and community engagement.

With the issuance of tenders in April and the commencement of work in September, the project is poised to become a reality, bringing numerous benefits to the local community.

A PDF design showing a birds eye view of the border between Strabane and Lifford, both split by the River Foyle. The community park spaces are coloured green, showing details of where buildings, wet lands, and even trees are located. A legend is featured on the right, and below the many partners involved with the project are listed.
The park is located close to the Derry Road in Strabane (right) and crosses over the Foyle behind the council offices in Lifford (left)

The Riverine Project's success will be measured by its ability to provide a high-quality, sustainable, and accessible space for the community, addressing the current lack of resources and facilities.

The project's development is a testament to the power of community engagement and collaborative planning, demonstrating the potential for positive change through collective effort.

The allocation of £14.5m in funding from the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) through Peaceplus is a significant investment in the local community, recognizing the project's potential to drive positive change.

As the project moves forward, it is essential to maintain a focus on community needs, ensuring that the final product is tailored to the requirements and expectations of the local population.

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Aberdeen to unveil new manager soon with Docherty set to take assistant role

Aberdeen has bolstered its interim management team with the return of Tony Docherty, who previously served as an assistant manager, to support Peter Leven, amid anticipation of a permanent appointment announcement that sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel had indicated would be made “imminently”.

Ross County parted ways with Tony Docherty in December, and he has now taken on a new role.

Aberdeen have brought in former assistant manager Tony Docherty to support Peter Leven's interim management team, despite sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel indicating that a permanent appointment was imminent.

Docherty's return to Aberdeen comes just a week after Eirik Horneland, a former coach of Rosenborg, Brann, and Saint-Etienne, emerged as a top contender to succeed Jimmy Thelin, who was sacked earlier.

As Aberdeen delays making a full-time appointment, speculation surrounding Eirik Horneland's availability has arisen, with reports suggesting the 50-year-old Norwegian may not be able to take on the role until summer.

Since Jimmy Thelin's dismissal on January 4, Lutz Pfannenstiel has been leading the search for a replacement, and he confirmed that Tony Docherty would be joining the team to assist Peter Leven during the interim period.

Dundee Utd are facing a challenging schedule, with four matches in 14 days set to take place on a weather-affected pitch.

According to Stavrum, Eirik Horneland's coaching style, characterized by intensity, would be a good fit for Aberdeen.

Tony Docherty initially joined Aberdeen in 2013 as part of Derek McInnes' management team and spent eight years at the club.

Before his stint at Aberdeen, Docherty served as McInnes' assistant at Kilmarnock and later managed Dundee and Ross County, but his time at Ross County ended in December when he was let go with the team at the bottom of the Championship.

Lutz Pfannenstiel praised Tony Docherty's experience, stating that he has a deep understanding of the club and will be a valuable asset during the transition period.

Pfannenstiel highlighted Docherty's extensive knowledge of the Scottish Premiership, gained through his experience as both a coach and manager, which will be beneficial to the team in the short term.

The club's managerial search is nearing its conclusion, and an announcement regarding the new head coach is expected soon, according to Pfannenstiel.

Peter Leven, who is serving as caretaker manager for the third time, expressed his enthusiasm for Tony Docherty's appointment.

Leven welcomed Docherty's return, stating that his experience will be a significant boost to the team, particularly during the upcoming matches.

Leven noted that Docherty was eager to join the team and that his presence will provide valuable support during both training sessions and matches.

Eirik Horneland left his position at Saint-Etienne in early February, at which point his team was fourth in France's second tier.

If Aberdeen decides to wait until summer for Horneland to take over, it will be similar to the six-month delay that occurred when Jimmy Thelin joined the club from Elfsborg in the summer of 2024.

For the latest news, analysis, and fan perspectives on Aberdeen, visit our dedicated page.

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Peter Murrell faces allegations of misusing £459,000 in funds over 12 years

Allegations have been made that he bought various items, such as luxury goods, jewellery, cosmetics, two cars and a motorhome, in an improper manner.

Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party, is facing allegations of embezzling £459,000 from the party over a 12-year period.

Peter Murrell looking off to his right while sitting in a room. He is wearing a black suit, white shirt and dark coloured tie.
Peter Murrell is due to appear in court next Friday for a preliminary hearing

An indictment document obtained by BBC News outlines the case against Murrell, who is the estranged husband of former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The alleged embezzlement is said to have occurred between August 2010 and January 2023, according to the indictment.

It is claimed that Murrell used party funds to purchase luxury items, including jewellery, cosmetics, and vehicles, such as two cars and a motorhome.

The Scottish Sun was the first to report on the details of the indictment.

A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled to take place at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday, 20 February, where Murrell is expected to appear.

During his initial court appearance at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Murrell made no plea and was subsequently granted bail.

Murrell's arrest in 2023 was part of Operation Branchform, a police investigation into the SNP's funding and finances, which led to him being charged with embezzlement in April 2024.

A police van and a police officer outside Murrell's home in April 2023.
Murrell was arrested in 2023 as part of a probe into the SNP's finances

Although Sturgeon was questioned by police as part of the investigation, she is no longer considered a suspect.

BBC News has obtained a copy of the indictment against Murrell ahead of his upcoming court appearance.

It is worth noting that the indictment is subject to change until the case is heard in court and may be amended throughout the judicial process.

The indictment alleges that Murrell purchased a £124,550 motorhome for personal use and created false documents to justify the expense as a legitimate party expenditure.

Murrell is also accused of using £57,500 of party funds to buy a Jaguar I-PACE car in 2019, and falsifying an invoice to conceal the true nature of the purchase.

Furthermore, it is alleged that when the Jaguar was sold in 2021, Murrell deposited more than £47,000 into his personal bank account.

The indictment also claims that Murrell embezzled £16,489 from the SNP to partially fund the purchase of a Volkswagen Golf in 2016.

A list of over 80 retailers is included in the indictment, where Murrell allegedly made purchases totalling more than £159,000 between 2014 and 2022, using party credit or charge cards for personal expenses.

The retailers named in the indictment include Harrods, the Royal Mint, John Lewis, Homebase, and Argos, among others.

It is alleged that Murrell used SNP credit or charge cards to make these purchases and then inserted false or inaccurate accounting codes and descriptions into the party's accounting systems.

The indictment also accuses Murrell of making purchases worth over £81,600 through Amazon using the same method.

Murrell served as the SNP's chief executive for 22 years before his departure.

Murrell and Sturgeon were married in 2010, but announced their separation in January 2025, after being together for many years.

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Bangladesh Nationalist Party Wins Landslide in Country’s First Poll Since Youth-Led Protests

The public is looking forward to a shift back to democratic governance, following a 15-year period of authoritarian leadership by Sheikh Hasina.

In a significant shift in the country's political landscape, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has achieved a decisive majority in parliament, 18 months after widespread protests led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, the country's longest-serving prime minister.

Supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) show a victory sign in front of a banner with Tarique Rahman’s photo, as the results project BNP's victory in the 13th general election, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, February 13, 2026. REUTERS/Mohammad Ponir Hossain
Tarique Rahman has been out of the country for 17 years. He has promised democracy will be restored

The BNP secured over two-thirds of the seats in the recent general election, with the Jamaat party, the main Islamist party in the country, coming in second; meanwhile, the Awami League, led by Hasina, was not allowed to participate in the election.

As the BNP's leader, Tarique Rahman is poised to become the next prime minister, facing significant challenges in revitalizing the economy and restoring democratic principles after 15 years of authoritarian rule under Hasina's leadership.

In a concurrent referendum, voters also expressed support for comprehensive democratic reforms, which are expected to shape the country's future.

Following Friday prayers in Dhaka, Tarique Rahman expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating, "I am grateful for the love you have shown me"; his party has chosen not to hold a victory procession.

Rahman, who was elected to parliament for the first time, was among the 212 successful BNP candidates; according to the Election Commission, voter turnout was 59.44%.

This marks a significant turnaround for Rahman, who spent 17 years in self-imposed exile in London before taking over as party leader after his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, passed away in December.

During his campaign, Rahman pledged to restore democratic principles and practices in the country.

The new government will need to address pressing issues, including economic revitalization, controlling rising food prices, and creating employment opportunities for the country's large youth population.

Rebuilding relations with neighboring India is also a key priority for the incoming government.

In the aftermath of his victory, Rahman received a congratulatory call from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who acknowledged his "remarkable victory".

Modi took to social media to reaffirm India's commitment to promoting peace, progress, and prosperity in both countries, citing their deep historical and cultural ties.

Although the BNP has pledged to bring about change, the party has faced criticism in the past for corruption and alleged human rights abuses during its previous tenure in government in the early 2000s.

The recent election represents a pivotal moment for the country, with one of the two main parties achieving a significant victory, presenting both opportunities and risks.

Proposed constitutional reforms include introducing term limits for the prime minister, establishing a directly elected upper house of parliament, strengthening presidential powers, and increasing judicial independence.

The reforms also aim to increase female representation in parliament, an area where significant progress is still needed, as evidenced by the limited number of successful female candidates in the recent election.

As the newly elected leader, Tarique Rahman will face intense scrutiny as he works to deliver on his promises to a predominantly young electorate eager for change, many of whom participated in the student-led protests that ultimately led to Hasina's removal and paved the way for the February 12 election.

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